5 Dinner Ideas for a Group Trip

We’ve rounded up our top 5 dinner ideas for feeding a big group (more than 10 people). Since our vacation rental sleeps up to 26 adults, we’ve got experience hosting big groups and making delicious dinners that will feed a crowd.

1) Taco bar - This is by far our most go-to dinner plan for a big group. We love this because you can satisfy both the meat eaters and the vegetarians, and everyone can customize their tacos or bowls to their preference. We like to start with some rice, a pot of beans, and a meat option (Pinch of Yum’s carnitas recipe is a good one). Then add extras like shredded cheese, lettuce, peppers, corn, guacamole, tomatoes or pico de gallo, cilantro, diced jalapeno, onions, shredded purple cabbage, etc.

2) Pasta + salads - A big batch of pasta is great for feeding a crowd, and this is another meal you can offer customization on. Meat eaters can add Italian sausage or chicken to their bowl (as long as you cook the pasta separately) and you could even offer different types of sauces or other add-ons like shredded cheese or extra basil. Prep a deconstructed salad and let people build their own salads for maximum customization.

3) Chili - A simple classic that also works well with a bunch of add-ons (are you sensing a theme here?) Make a big batch of chili, some fresh baked cornbread, and give people the option to add different shredded cheeses, cilantro, hot peppers, hot sauces, sour cream, etc. And don’t forget some corn chips to go with it.

4) Roasted Chicken + Veggies - For the meat eaters — roasting a whole chicken (or 2-3) is actually way easier than it sounds, and the meat is so much better than when you cook separate cuts of chicken. We do ours in a dutch oven for 90 minutes uncovered at 375F (check the temp and go longer if needed) and then take it out of the oven and put the cover on for 15 minutes. Prior to roasting — rub the outside with olive oil, salt, and any herbs you like (or stick some lemon or herbs in the cavity). So simple. Pick a few easy veggie sides to do with it and you’re good to go.

5) Baked potatoes, soup + salad - Let’s channel the classic 80’s buffet with a baked potato, soup, and salad bar. Throw a bunch of potatoes in the oven and treat yourself to all the best toppings (bacon bits! queso! more cilantro!). Make a big batch of soup and do another deconstructed salad where everyone can customize their own salad plate.

These are our favorite meals to feed a big group in any season. In the summer, you’ll catch us doing a lot more grilled meats and side salads, along with big charcuterie boards and happy hour snacks. Want an easy way to plan out your meals, grocery lists, and delegate the tasks of cooking and cleaning up after meals? Use our free meal planning template (a free downloadable you can customize and share with your group).